Obituary for Shelby J. (Gunnels) Donathan

A memorial service for Shelby J. (Gunnels) Donathan will be held at 5:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the Kenton Eagles. The Price-McElroy Funeral Home in Kenton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Shelby passed away on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at her residence in Kenton. She was born on August 5, 1938, in Livingston, Tennessee to the late Gilbert and Thelma (Boswell) Gunnels. On April 20, 1957, she married Edwin Donathan, and he preceded her in death on May 3, 1992.

Surviving is a daughter, Renee (Michael) Bierly of Harrod, 4 sons; John (Francine) Donathan of Delphos, Larry (Lisa) Donathan of Loudonville, Gary Donathan of Wapakoneta, Eddie Donathan of Kenton, 4 siblings; Gill Gunnels of Florida, Jerry (Syvel) Gunnels of Lake Orion, Michigan, Glen (Joani) Gunnels of Florida, Sue (Dan) Davis of Cadillac, Michigan, 23 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Marie and a grandson, Ryan Donathan.

Shelby loved her family. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and taking care of her cats, Oliver and Billy Jo.

In her free time Shelby would play bingo and enjoyed going to the casino. She would also do some crocheting and was always working in her garden planting flowers. 

Memorial donations in Shelby’s honor may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Hardin County Humane Society.

Online condolences may be expressed at pricefh.net.